I am a firm believer
in the value of transcribing for all musicians and I am a staunch endorser of
the Reed Kotler TR-1000. The two go together. Transcribing music is the
tried-and-proven way to gain vocabulary on the instrument, to improve as a
player and to create a personal style. After trying the TR-1000 it has proven
itself to me. The TR-1000 is the ultimate transcribing tool. After years of
using tape decks of all types and experimenting with various digital slow-mos
and computer software, I have come to the conclusion that this is THE ONE. The
TR-1000 is well-thought out and very functional, it feels and responds like it
was designed by transcribers for transcribers. The technology is seamless, the
TR-1000 removes the barricades between art and science and gets one closer to
the music. The transport controls are ergonomic—they are physically laid out
like a tape deck and highly intuitive. TR-1000 makes the task of transcribing so
much easier and more enjoyable—leaving you to work on your ear and the sounds,
and not to fiddle with controls. The looping capabilities of the TR-1000 are
particularly useful—to define the exact phrase you are transcribing and then
manipulate it and edit it with such ease is truly an accomplishment. The TR-1000
is not a toy. Compared to some of the lightweight low-fidelity units out there,
this is a serious machine. The RCA jacks allow for professional -quality
connection to a board or stereo amplifier, and the sound is as good as it gets.
The TR-1000 has become an indispensable addition to my studio and desktop. I
can't imagine transcribing music without it.